The Do's and Don'ts of Monitoring a Head Injury After an Accident

Head injuries should never be underestimated because they can turn lethal in a moment in some situations. Just look at what happened to actress Natasha Richardson. The star was a on a ski vacation with her family when she had what seemed like a minor fall on a beginner's ski slope. She joked about the fall and showed no sign of a traumatic injury.

However, things quickly turned dire for Richardson. Within hours, she wound up in the hospital and passed away. According to Newsweek, her injury triggered delayed massive swelling of the brain. If you receive any kind of head injury, you don't want your family to end up needing a personal injury lawyer for the tragedy. Follow these do's and don'ts for self-care after the injury.

Do Seek Medical Attention Immediately

If you experience any kind of head injury, you should take it very seriously, even if you suspect it's just a bump on the head. Go to a hospital or other medical facility and have an examination. In some cases of suspected traumatic brain injury, the doctor may order a CAT scan to look for indications of grave injuries.

Don't Ignore Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is very serious, although things may appear normal at first. After a head injury, be sure to monitor for symptoms that may indicate you have a traumatic brain injury. Some of those symptoms include:

Experiencing a loss of consciousness

Having changes to your vision, such as blurred vision or loss of eye moment

Losing cognitive abilities

Responding with inappropriate or extreme emotional responses

Getting a headache

Experiencing confusion

Finding it difficult to swallow

Losing control of your bladder or bowels

Since other symptoms include paralysis and going into a coma, you want to take all of these symptoms seriously. Report any of them to your healthcare provider immediately.

Do Keep Records When Possible

Even if you aren't someone who enjoys keeping a diary, try to make notes of everything surrounding the accident that lead to your head injury. If possible, take photos and otherwise document the accident and the subsequent medical problems you experience as a result of the incident.

Not only will that help you look back and get information for your doctor, but it may also be helpful if you decide to pursue a personal injury case against the person or company responsible for your injury. Your personal injury attorney will appreciate that attention to detail that can help your case.

Don’t Passively Accept Medical Care

Don't sit back and wait for your doctor to do their best work. Be engaged and learn as much as possible about your condition. That can empower you to take optimal care of yourself. You may also want to ask your doctor questions about how you can tell if your head injury becomes serious and when you may be able to return to sports and other activities you enjoy.

About 1.7 million traumatic head injury cases occur every year. Be sure to seek help immediately for any sort of head injury or other personal injury. If you or someone you love has been the victim of a head injury from an accident, be sure to contact the Law Office of Randolph C Slone. We are your strongest advocate during a time when you need it.

At the Law Office of Randolph C. Slone, we pride ourselves on getting the results that our clients deserve, and we can do the same for you. After all, we have triumphed in thousands of settlements, and we offer you a free initial consultation that's stress-free, so reach out to us today for help in getting the settlement you deserve.